Setting up a freshwater aquarium isn’t just about the tank, filter, and fish—it’s about adding the right accessories to create a safe, thriving, and easy-to-maintain environment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced aquarist, having the right tools can make all the difference in your tank’s success. Here’s a checklist of must-have freshwater aquarium accessories that every fishkeeper should consider.
1. Airline Tubing and Air Stones
Good oxygenation is crucial for healthy fish and bacteria colonies. Airline tubing connects your air pump to an air stone, which disperses tiny bubbles throughout your aquarium. These bubbles not only improve oxygen levels but also enhance water circulation and add visual movement to your tank.
Tip: Use a check valve with your airline tubing to prevent water backflow into your air pump.
2. Fish Nets
No aquarium setup is complete without at least one aquarium-safe fish net. Nets are essential for transferring fish safely, removing uneaten food, catching debris, or moving sick fish to a hospital tank. Choose nets with fine mesh for delicate species like shrimp or bettas, and larger, stronger nets for bigger fish like goldfish or cichlids.
3. Automatic Fish Feeders
Going on holiday or simply sticking to a strict feeding schedule? An automatic fish feeder ensures your fish are fed consistent portions at set times, even when you’re away. Many models offer multiple feedings per day and programmable schedules, ideal for busy fishkeepers or tanks with specialized dietary needs.
4. Thermometers
Temperature control is vital, especially for tropical fish species. A reliable aquarium thermometer allows you to monitor your water temperature daily to ensure it stays within the optimal range. Choose from stick-on, floating, or digital models depending on your preference and tank setup.
5. Breeding Boxes and Isolation Units
Breeding boxes or isolation units are must-haves for community tanks where fry need protection or stressed fish require separation. They provide a safe environment for baby fish or injured adults while allowing water to flow freely from the main tank, maintaining consistent conditions.
6. Suction Cups and Clips
Suction cups and tubing clips help organize your equipment, airline hoses, and heaters neatly against the tank walls. Keeping things secure prevents damage to equipment and ensures optimal placement for flow and filtration devices.
Bonus Items: Helpful Extras
- Algae Scrapers – Keep your glass spotless and your view unobstructed.
- Surface Skimmers – Remove surface films and improve oxygen exchange.
- Battery Backup Air Pumps – Essential for power outages to protect your fish.
Find Everything You Need at Charterhouse Aquatics
Whether you're setting up your first tank or upgrading an established system, the right accessories make all the difference in keeping your fish healthy and your maintenance simple. Browse our Freshwater Aquarium Accessories Collection to find everything you need—from air stones and tubing to feeders, nets, and breeding boxes—all from trusted brands and handpicked for quality.
Equip your tank properly from the start, and enjoy a stress-free, beautiful aquarium for years to come!
